Adhar News
The Association of Parents of Mentally Retarded Children, Mumbai
Vol. VIII - No. 1
JANUARY - MARCH 2013
For Private Circulation Only
IMPORTANT EVENTS, BADLAPUR
Mr. Ashok Chitnis and Dr. Shubha Chitnis releasing the
Newsletter along with Mr. Gore, Chairman
Inmates enjoying the soft drink donated by Dabur India Ltd.
Annual Medical Camp for the inmates
Mr. Vasant & Mrs. Lata Palekar engrossed in learning the
activity at Vocational Training Centre
Works in progress to protect the inmates from scorching sun
in summer as many of them walk barefoot
Inmates performing cultural activity for the audience
CHAIRMAN’S DESK
3. Multipurpose Hall & Recreation Centre.
4. Common Dining Hall with attached Kitchen.
(“In Memory of Late Shri Himmatlal D. Mehta
& Late Shri Bipinchandra J. Mehta” -Supported
by Mr. Ajay & Mrs. Falguni Mehta)
I take this opportunity to thank the donors &
supporters who have whole heartedly joined us in
making Adhar II [Nashik] a reality. My special
thanks to Mr. Ajay Mehta who has single handedly
donated Rs. 25 lacs for our dining hall.
Dear Readers,
Greetings !
We are completing one year of our operations at
Adhar II [Nashik] on 1st June 2013. At present, we
have 22 children under our care. Nashik unit has
been settling down very well with the help of 17
newly recruited care giving staff under able
guidance & supervision of Mr. Parag & Mrs. Asha
Fadnis.
I am extremely happy & delighted to inform you
that on the day of the celebration of 1st anniversary
we are going to inaugurate 4 new buildings. The
construction of following buildings has been
completed within record time – The credit goes to
our team Mr. Rahul Samel, Architect, Mr. Kiran
Mahajani, Structural Engineer & Mr. Jay Sabnis,
Contractor.
1. Residential Dormitory II with the capacity of
25 inmates.
(Supported by LIC Golden Jubilee Foundation)
2. Vocational Training Centre.
(“In memory of Lt. Shri Mohan Thanvardas
Chainani” - Supported by “Executor of Estate
of Late Veena Mohan Chainani”)
Adhar News
We have achieved another milestone in the
history of Adhar. The book in Marathi,
“Adharmaya” written by Dr. Shubha Chitnis
was published on 23 rd April 2013 at Gadkari
Rangayatan, Thane by the hands of renowned
personality in Marathi literature Padmabhushan
‘Shri Mangesh Padgaonkar’. It was a great honor
to all our 135 staff members who have been
taking good care of our children at Adhar for last
19 years.
I personally thank Dr. Shubha Chitnis for
working so hard and bringing out a true story of
Adhar in “Adharmaya”. She has personally visited
Badlapur & Nashik Unit to understand the working,
has interviewed many staff members while
documenting the real story of Adhar. I will be failing
in duties if I don’t acknowledge the efforts of Shri
Ashok Chitnis Sir & Shri Nilesh Gaikwad of Vyas
Creation who have helped to publish the book
in time.
I am happy to note the positive response of the
parents to my appeal of getting more involved in
Adhar activities. It is necessary that we all should
come together and work for the betterment of our
children & Adhar.
With warm regards,
Vishwas Gore, Chairman
1
EDITORIAL
REMEMBRANCE
Dear Readers,
Greetings to you from
222 inmates ( 200 at
Badlapur & 22 at Nashik)
Nashik unit started
functioning from June 1st
2012 and within a year
dormitory is fully occupied
and now we have wait list for another dormitory
which will be inaugurated on June 1st 2013, which
can accommodate another 25 inmates. We have no
words to express our gratitude towards generous
donation from LIC Golden Jubilee Fund. Here I
am happy to inform that we have inmates from all
parts of India and from overseas as well.
Along with the inaugural function of the
Dormitory, Vocational Training Centre, Kitchen and
Dining Hall will also be inaugurated.
Badlapur unit is developing and now the campus
looks very beautiful. The new system of one team
one dormitory which was introduced few months
ago is now shaping up very well.
The induction of Mr. Gane sh Ambekar, Manager
H.R & P.R will boost the image of Adhar further
and will take it new height.
We sincerely thank all the donors for their
unconditional and continued support.
Last but not the least I am enjoying my second
innings at Nashik – with the support of management
and Mrs. Asha Fadnis.
- P. B. Fadnis
Editor
Late. Mr. Anant Joshi
Late. Mr. Pradeep Kulkarni
Nashik Unit will be completing one year of
functioning on 1st June 2013. While celebrating
this grand occasion we will be failing in our duty
if we do not pay homage to two departed souls
Late Mr. Pradeep Kulkarni and Late Mr. Anant
Joshi who toiled very hard for the Nashik Project.
Unfortunately, both of them left for the heavenly
abode before the start of the project. While
working in Adhar II the staff feels their presence
and their selfless services. They are remembered
every day. They are the inspirational source to
all of us. We are sure that they are watching the
progress from up and must be feeling extremely
satisfied. We at Adhar assure them that their
earlier efforts will not be wasted.
Management and the Staff of ADHAR.
2
January - March 2013
Mental Retardation - Intellectual
and Developmental Disability
o Defects in the chromosome or chromosomal
inheritance (such as fragile X syndrome,
Angelman syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome)
Causes
Mental retardation affects about 1 - 3% of the
population. There are many causes of mental
retardation, but doctors find a specific reason in only
25% of cases.
A family may suspect mental retardation if the
child’s motor skills, language skills, and self-help
skills do not seem to be developing, or are developing
at a far slower rate than the child’s peers. Failure to
adapt (adjust to new situations) normally and grow
intellectually may become apparent early in a child’s
life. In the case of mild retardation, these failures
may not become recognizable until school age or
later.
o Errors of chromosome numbers (such as
Down's syndrome)
•
o Deprivation syndrome
•
Genetic abnormalities and inherited metabolic
disorders
o Adrenoleukodystrophy
o Galactosemia
o Hunter syndrome
o Hurler syndrome
o Lesch-Nyhan syndrome
o Phenylketonuria
o Rett syndrome
o Sanfilippo syndrome
o Tay-Sachs disease
o Tuberous sclerosis
•
Metabolic
o Congenital hypothyroid
o Hypoglycemia (poorly regulated diabetes)
o Reye syndrome
o Hyperbilirubinemia (very high bilirubin levels
in babies)
•
Nutritional
o Malnutrition
•
Toxic
o Intrauterine exposure to alcohol, cocaine,
amphetamines, and other drugs
o Lead poisoning
o Methylmercury poisoning
•
Trauma (before and after birth)
o Intracranial hemorrhage before or after birth
o Lack of oxygen to the brain before, during, or
after birth
o Severe head injury
The degree of impairment from mental retardation
varies widely, from profoundly impaired to mild or
borderline retardation. Less emphasis is now placed
on the degree of retardation and more on the
amount of intervention and care needed for daily
life.
Risk factors are related to the causes. Causes of
mental retardation can be roughly broken down into
several categories:
• Infections (present at birth or occurring after
birth)
o Congenital CMV
o Congenital rubella
o Congenital toxoplasmosis
o Encephalitis
o HIV infection
o Listeriosis
o Meningitis
• Chromosomal abnormalities
o Chromosome deletions (such as cri du chat
syndrome)
o Chromosomal translocations (a gene is located
in an unusual spot on a chromosome, or located
on a different chromosome than usual)
Adhar News
Environmental
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•
Unexplained (this largest category is for
unexplained occurrences of mental retardation)
Symptoms
•
•
•
Continued infant-like behavior
Decreased learning ability
Failure to meet the markers of intellectual
development
• Inability to meet educational demands at school
• Lack of curiosity
Note: Changes to normal behaviors depend on the
severity of the condition. Mild retardation may be
associated with a lack of curiosity and quiet behavior.
Severe mental retardation is associated with infantlike behavior throughout life.
Exams and Tests
An assessment of age-appropriate adaptive
behaviors can be made using developmental screening
tests. The failure to achieve developmental milestones
suggests mental retardation.
The following may be signs of mental retardation:
•
Abnormal Denver developmental screening test
•
•
•
Adaptive behavior score below average
Development way below that of peers
Intelligence quotient (IQ) score below 70 on a
standardized IQ test
Treatment
The primary goal of treatment is to develop the
person’s potential to the fullest. Special education and
training may begin as early as infancy. This includes
social skills to help the person function as normally
as possible.
It is important for a specialist to evaluate the person
for other affective disorders and treat those disorders.
Behavioral approaches are important for people with
mental retardation.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outcome depends on:
•
Opportunities
•
Other conditions
•
Personal motivation
•
4
Treatment
Many people lead productive lives and function
on their own; others need a structured environment
to be most successful.
Possible Complications
Complications vary. They may include:
•
•
•
Inability to care for self
Inability to interact with others appropriately
Social isolation
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if:
• You have any concerns about your child’s
development
• You notice that your child’s motor or language
skills are not developing normally
• Your child has other disorders that need
treatment
Prevention
Genetic: Prenatal screening for genetic defects and
genetic counseling for families at risk for known
inherited disorders can decrease the risk of inherited
mental retardation.
Social: Government nutrition programs are
available to poor children in the first and most critical
years of life. These programs can reduce retardation
associated with malnutrition. Early intervention in
situations involving abuse and poverty will also help.
Toxic: Environmental programs to reduce
exposure to lead, mercury, and other toxins will reduce
toxin-associated retardation. However, the benefits
may take years to become apparent. Increased public
awareness of the risks of alcohol and drugs during
pregnancy can help reduce the incidence of
retardation.
Infectious: The prevention of congenital rubella
syndrome is probably one of the best examples of a
successful program to prevent one form of mental
retardation. Constant vigilance, such as limiting
exposure to cat litter that can cause toxoplasmosis
during pregnancy, helps reduce retardation that results
from this infection.
Medical Care
• Early identification of children with developmental
delays is necessary to begin receiving early
intervention services for children from birth to 3
January - March 2013
years of age and early childhood education services
for children aged 3-5 years, which are known to
improve outcomes.
•
The mainstay of treatment of MR/ID is developing
a comprehensive management plan for the
condition. The complex habilitation plan for the
individual requires input from care providers from
multiple disciplines, including special educators,
language therapists, behavioral therapists,
occupational therapists, and community services
that provide social support and respite care for
families affected by MR/ID.
•
Preventive care: Unfortunately, routine preventive
care for children and adults with MR/ID is lacking.
Adaptive equipment (e.g. for non ambulatory
patients) and extra time (e.g. double time slots)
may be required to accommodate such patients. In
addition, family members or other support persons
may be helpful. Written plans (such as the
Massachusetts Department of Developmental
Services
Annual
Health
Screening
Recommendations and Health Record) are helpful
for interdisciplinary team communication.
•
•
Physical activity and obesity are major contributors
to disease in MR/ID. Very few programs exist that
target healthy lifestyles (nutrition/diet, exercise,
self-care, stress reduction) in those with MR/ID.
Annual counseling and referral on these issues to
community agencies and programs is
recommended. Medications (eg, antipsychotics)
should be titrated to reduce the risk of obesity and
metabolic issues.
Pain
o Manifestations of pain in people with severe to
profound MR/ID include crying, screaming,
grimacing, protective postures (eg, arching,
fetal position), rocking, and aggression. Parent/
caregiver input is key to interpretation of these
behaviors, though validated tools have been
used as adjuncts (such as the Pediatric Pain
Profile).
o Common causes of acute pain include dental
caries/abscesses, GERD, constipation, UTI,
spasticity (when MR/ID is associated with
cerebral palsy), pressure sores, and fractures.
Adhar News
o In addition, neuropathic pain due to
dysautonomia or motor spasms may create
chronic disturbances. Treatment should be
prompt and include NSAIDs or acetaminophen
for mild pain, tramadol or equivalent for
moderate pain, and uploads for severe pain as
indicated, and management of sources of pain.
Some suggest use of gabapentin for neuropathic
pain if no sources are identified and there is a
history of surgery, symptoms suggesting
visceral hyperalgesia (e.g., associated with
feedings or bowel movements), or symptoms
of autonomic dysfunction and spasticity.
•
Written, verbal and pictorial forms of
communication as well as gestures and
demonstrations are helpful for those with MR/ID
to ensure mutual understanding and improve
treatment adherence.
•
Sedation/anesthesia: Patients with MR/ID
requiring anesthesia may have different reactions
than the general population, such as paradoxical
reactions to benzodiazepines, and care should be
taken to use the lowest dose and titrate slowly.
•
Sexuality/abuse: A significantly higher proportion
of children and adults with MR/ID have
experienced some form of abuse, with some
estimates of up to 70%, which contributes to
mental health issues. This should be addressed at
each medical visit and especially in the setting of
changes in behaviors, such as increased aggression.
•
No treatments are available specifically for
cognitive deficiency. Although the pharmacologic
enhancement of cognition (e.g. use of donepezil
in patients with Down's syndrome) is an area of
interest, research on such no tropic (ie, knowledgeenhancing) compounds is limited. Such drugs have
not become part of the routine or even
experimental clinical management of this
population.
Other concerns
• Individuals in the United States older than 18 years
are no longer under the guardianship of their
biological parents. No exceptions are made for
children with MR/ID. Most of these individuals,
particularly those in the range of mild MR, are
5
capable of making appropriate legal and medical
decisions when adequately and appropriately
informed of the decision outcomes.
• Physicians have the duty to ascertain whether
patients with MR/ID have the capacity to consent
for medical treatments. This may be challenging
and outside information and supports (eg, family,
caregivers, and social workers) may be required
to confirm the patients’ understanding of the risks,
benefits and alternatives to the procedure.
• Some individuals may not be capable of
comprehending the implications of the medical or
legal matter at hand. In such cases, a member of
the biological family best makes the decision. The
family member may obtain guardianship status for
power of attorney over these matters. If a family
member is unavailable to serve as guardian, then
a guardian ad litum can be assigned by the court
for assistance in such legal and medical matters.
If a patient with MR/ID does not have the capacity
to consent, then the patient’s assent should be
sought if possible.
• Subsequent to the long history of forced
sterilization of girls/women with MR/ID, varied
federal, state, and local laws regulate sterilization
of individuals with MR/ID. The American College
of Obstetrician/Gynecologists provides guidance
on informed consent for sterilization procedures
in patients with ID/MR.
•
Complex decisions, particularly those involving
end of life, are perhaps best handled with the
assistance of the ethics committee of the involved
medical institution.
o Failures to identify a genetic cause of MR/ID
with risks to other family members or risks to
the patient for future medical complications are
potential medical/legal pitfalls.
• Perhaps 1 in 8 convicts on death row in the United
States has MR/ID. Many persons cannot fully
comprehend the Miranda Rights and other critical
concepts necessary to maneuver through the
criminal justice system.
Compiled by
Ganesh Ambekar
6
DO NOT DELIGHT IN
OTHERS’ DEFECTS
There is no 100 percent perfection in man’s
life. Some or other deficiency will always
persists. Without understanding this cycle of
ups and downs, some people find interest in
talking about others’s defects and waste their
time in it. This has become second nature of
such person.
They ridicule people if their limb or
appearance are not perfect. Some people do not
respect elders at all. The mind of the elderly is
soft like sponge, it should not be hurt. If one is
lacking in education, there are people who do
not at all take him into consideration. Some
others pay scant respect to those without money.
These are not good qualities. They only lead to
sin.
One who delights in others defects must
introspect. He must ask himself if he has no
blemishes at all. If one analyses how far he is
perfect, he will not ridicule others. Only he who
does not mock at others and treats all people with
kindness is the ideal man. Such a person will be
loved by all. Let all people understand this and
live in such a manner.
Jagadguru Shri Bhartiji Thirthji
Compiled by: Mr. S. M. Chandawarkar
(Trustee)
If you want peace of mind, do not find
fault with others. Rather, see your fault.
Learn to make the whole world your own.
No one is stranger, my child, the whole
world is your own.
- Mother Sarada Devi
January - March 2013
SEVEN LEVELS OF HAPPINESS
Everyone desires happiness. Happiness is our true
nature. However, in our lives happiness is temporary.
The quest for true happiness – a kind of bliss that
does not diminish with time. Man seeks this
permanent happiness in his day-to-day life, but in the
process gets entangled in illusory happiness or false
happiness.
• False happiness is what you derive when you get
promotion.
• False happiness is found in taunting or even in
harming others.
• False happiness is seeking happiness in praise and
appreciation.
Transforming the way you derive happiness is the
first step in spiritual transformation. There are seven
levels of happiness. All the examples of false
happiness mentioned above are categorized in the
lower levels of happiness. As you spiritually
transform, you derive happiness from higher levels.
First level of happiness – Artificial Happiness
Artificial happiness means that where ignorance
prevails and where happiness actually does not even
exist. Where it does not even occur to one that a fake
object is being deceitful means to save money, then it
is artificial happiness. Let us move forward towards
genuine happiness.
Second level of happiness – Second hand happiness
There is a market value for second hand cars where
you can buy used cars. However, second-hand
vehicles or objects usually don’t last long. Similarly,
there is second hand happiness, which is derived by
using others or having fun at the expense of others.
In this type a person likes to enjoy by teasing, taunting,
bullying or troubling others. Back home we find that
brothers and sisters often tease, taunt, and quarrel with
each other. And when the dispute grows out of
proportion, they patch up by asking for forgiveness
from each other and then throw parties and enjoy
themselves.
Third level of happiness – Stimulation Happiness
The third level of happiness is known as
stimulation happiness; this happiness is aroused by
excitement. Happiness gained due to parties, picnics,
Adhar News
festivals, celebrations etc is stimulus happiness. The
whole society is a prey to this kind of happiness.
However, such gratification is momentary. As soon
as that moment is gone, the same situation continues
to persist – of boredom and dullness. A person tries
to fight boredom, misery and distress by creating
excitement. What he never realizes is, that very
excitement in turn leads to even more boredom,
misery and distress.
Fouth level of happiness – Formula Happiness
This happiness is created by applying a formula.
The meaning of formula is that by combining two
things, one formula emerges. Each person has devised
some formula in his/her life to feel some happiness.
If everything goes well as per his/her formula, he is
very happy. For many, the formula is “Sunday
morning newspaper + A cigarette + Coffee.” For
children, the formula could be “A whole day of play
+ A movie to end the day.” For ladies, it could be
“Gift + Gold = Happiness.”
Fifth level of happiness – Happiness through
Service
This is the first amongst the higher levels of
happiness, where an individual derives happiness out
of serving others. Some people render service by being
instrumental for others in achieving happiness. After
recovering from their own maladies and disorders,
and after coming out of their own anxieties, they start
serving others and work for the welfare of the society.
They get contentment and happiness due to such
service.
The law of nature that states ‘whatever you become
a medium for, will multiply in your life’ starts paying
rich dividends at this level. So, the more one serves,
the happier one becomes, the more Nature rewards
him…. One really begins to enjoy this virtuous cycle.
Sixth level of happiness – Divine Happiness
Happiness acquired from divine devotion is the
sixth level of happiness. At this level, man is in love
with the Creator. He sings the praises of God and
admires everything created by God. One is always in
a feeling of gratitude and devotion at this level. If
divine devotion gets aroused in our hearts, we are
bound to get happiness.
7
Seventh level of happiness – Eternal Bliss
This kind of happiness differs from all other kinds
of joys. This happiness is attained when a person is
free from all false beliefs and misconceptions, and
he knows the answer to, “Who am I?”
Today people are agonized due to their thoughts,
due to their mind. If a thought arises, it refuses to
budge. Many thoughts rush in all at once and no
breaks can be applied to them. And we can see that it
is thought that lead to misery; and it keeps on
increasing. Hence, the contrast mind needs training.
If this contrast mind gets training to become a child
again, then the same mind will be the cause of
happiness.
Compiled by
- P. B. Fadnis
(Source: Secret of Happiness)
The Ignorant, Intelligentsia & The Wise
Wisdom is beyond time. Like the sun is, ancient,
but the sun’s rays are fresh – it is not the same, stale
rays. It is the same with water. The river Ganga is
ancient but today’s water is very fresh. In the same
way, wisdom is something, which is applicable to our
life, which is new and fresh, yet which is ancient.
That which upholds life, can be called wisdom.
The ignorant are fanatically religious. The so –
called intelligentsia is fashionably atheistic but it is
the wise one who know how to combine the old and
the new and make their lives. Like a tree which needs
roots which are old and shoots which are new, life
needs to be adaptable and this, exactly , is ancient
wisdom. The very first hymn in the Rig Veda says,
“Rishirbh nutane nurut” and the second hymn says,
“Agni purvebi rishibhi nutane rut.” Modern and
ancient rishis do exist; the old and the new, they
exist together and that is wisdom. Like technology,
trade and tradition need to be revived and reviewed
repeatedly. This is essential and the vibrancy of India
is that we are able to do this. From ancient times,
traditions have been kept intact, yet we have become
very adaptable as time flew into modern-day
requirements and life’s challenges that one has to
meet.
What really is wisdom? Why we should be wise?
Nobody wants to be in suffering. Nobody wants to
be upset. That something which takes us away from
suffering, which gives us vision, which makes life
vibrant, which connects you-the individual you to the
universal. You that exists.
Wisdom it is nothing to do with education. You
will find wise people even among the illiterate. They
8
know how to manage home, they know how to keep
harmony in their neighborhood, how to bring people
together and how to bring celebration in life. Wisdom
is that which brings celebration in life, which brings
a smile on your face, which keeps you healthy and
gives you that intuitive ability to see life and what is
ahead of you.
I would like to add one more thing as we were
talking about thought. I find “Thought” is gatekeeper
of the house. Emotions are a little more powerful
than thoughts. You may think ‘I am happy’ or you
may put all your attention on thoughts but when
emotions come, they just barge in with such force
that all your thought process you kept to yourself
disappear. You find that your emotions are much more
powerful than thoughts. Situations overpower you.
Though you want to say ‘I want to be happy’ or ‘I am
happy’ and suddenly a bolt of emotions come, some
energy comes and they all disappear.
Therefore, we need to work on several layers of
our life. First are environment; then body and breath,
for breath is the link between mind and body. Then
mind and thoughts, and then emotions, which are
even subtler and powerful than that and beyond that
is the energy field that is positivity, the radiance,
soul, spirit that you are, that comes into play. In
addition, all these techniques like meditation and
contemplative prayer as in Buddhist Zen tradition
are to transcend thought and reach that level from
where everything else runs. That is like attending to
the house owner and then the guard will listen to
what the house owner says.
Talk by: Sri Sri Ravi Shankerji
January - March 2013
REALITY OF LIFE
Life is too short. It can end in an instant. So be
sure to make the most of every moment you are
granted. Live each moment as if it were the last. We
often take it lightly and then comes a moment when
we come face to face with the reality of how short
life really is! This means it is time for getting our
affairs in order. I read the above sentences in the
articles ‘ Life is too short’ published in the 17th Feb
Sunday weekly of Hindustan times. I was inspired to
write this article for the benefit of Adhar parents of
mentally challenged after reading it.
It is human tendency to postpone things to be done
today to a later date. We do not know what is in store
for us tomorrow. One day we have to face the reality
of life and we realize how badly we have failed to
make the most of it before it ended.
Keeping in mind the above facts the parents of
mentally challenged children of Adhar are advised to
think of the future of their handicapped children and
make arrangement for their lifelong medical care,
clothing, food etc; as early as possible. I hope the
following points would help them to plan for the
lifelong provision of their M.R.Children.
1. Do not put off making a will in favour of your
M.R.Child.
2. Nominate a trustworthy person who would be the
future guardian of your M.R.child. The nomination
would help the future guardian to get the
guardianship certificate from the court of law.
3. If you are a central or state govt. pensioner Your
M.R. child is eligible for disability pension after
you. So collect all necessary document including
the medical, disability and dependency certificate
of your child without any delay and send them to
the concerned office. If possible get your child’s
name endorsed in the P.P.O., so that the future
guardian would not face any hardship in getting
the pension on behalf of your child.
4. Make a list of everything and plan systemically in
favor of your child for his future in your absence.
Adhar News
Time and tide waits for no one. By postponing
things for tomorrow perhaps we may not be able to
see the tomorrow. Keep your affairs in order today
itself that also in your lifetime.
- C. R. Saraswati, Trustee
ADHAR
IF I HAD...
If I had wings like a bird,
I would fly all over the world
And spread Gandhiji’s message
Of peace and non-violence
If I had a magic ward of a fairy
I would change the disabled into abled
And I would make the abnormal to normal
Thus serve the humanity of the world.
If I had a boon received from God,
I would ask to restore the vision
Of all blind people all over the world
Thus help them to see the beauty of world
If I had an ‘Akshaypatra’ from sun of God
A vessel which is always full
I would feed the hungry and enable them
To earn a honorable living
If I had the power in my hand,
I would ask all the politicians
To declare their amassed wealth
And utilize it for national welfare
If wishes were horses
even beggars would ride
- C.R Saraswati, Trustee
ADHAR
9
SPIRITUAL OUTLOOK
We are today interested in learning about the outer
world. We spend billions studying the ocean bed, space
and outer space. However, at the same time, we do not
strive to understand what is close to us, our inner world.
Today, many people prefer large-screen televisions.
However, we can see that the larger the TV screens
are, the smaller the screens of our mind become. Our
selfishness and ego are shrinking the mind. We have
created vacuum cleaners that can remove the tiniest
specks of dirt. But many more are not aware of the
need to remove the filth in their minds. What makes
life beautiful or ugly is the mind. It is the mind that
we need to beautify first.
A long time ago, the devas and asuras were
constantly fighting with each other. They were living
in two different worlds then. By the time of Lord Rama,
the asuras had come closer; Lord Rama was in
Ayodhya, and Ravana, in neighboring Lanka. Later,
the asuras entered the families of the devas; Kamsa
was Lord Krishna’s uncle. And now, the asuras have
gained entry into our minds. Only when we defeat these
enemies, residing in the mind, can we attain real victory.
The enemies include egoism, jealousy, greed and
hatred. If we want peace and contentment, we must be
ready to fight a big battle. But this is not an external
war to be waged with guns and bombs, but an inner
combat to be fought with weapons such as love, faith
and self-sacrifice. There will be no bloodshed in this
battle, only the flow of love and peace.
No one can live without tension. There will always
be tension in life, but we should not let ourselves
become unnecessarily tense. We see birds flying in
the sky. No one can stop them. Similarly, we cannot
change many situations in life. Trying to do so is akin
to permitting birds build a nest on our heads. There is
no danger whatsoever from being in a boat floating
on the water. It is when water enters into the boat that
it becomes dangerous. Similarly, we are living amidst
problems. However, we should see to it that these
problems do not enter the mind. This is what is meant
by spirituality. Today, there are many who walk around
with pacemakers. If we have ‘peace-makers’ in our
hearts , there will be no need of pacemakers.
Spirituality is this ‘peace-maker.’
If we understand spirituality, we will be able to
witness problems from distance. No one else would
10
have faced the kind of obstacles that Lord Rama and
Lord Krishna met. However, they saw all those
circumstances in the same way that a playwright sees
his own play. One who understands the nature of the
world is able to regard both joy and sorrow, honor
and insult as an unaffected witness.
The ability to stand apart and witness the
vicissitudes of life is what is called sakshi bhava. One
of the aims of spiritual practice is to cultivate this
stance. Often, life will present more sorrow than joy.
The ability to stand apart and witness things will help
us immensely in regarding pain and pleasure with
equanimity, and in transcending them.
Compiled by: Asha Fadnis
(Matruvani, April 2013)
Staff Welfare Activity
All work and no play makes a man dull. Keeping
this in mind a two day picnic of the staff was organized
to Alibaug. At Alibaug they visited Nagabhish beach
and enjoyed the sunset. While returning, they visited
Swami Samarth and Hunuman temple at Pen. It was
a good two days outing from the routine work. All of
them returned with determination to excel in their
own department and to render maximum good
services to the inmates. Adhar bus and Rs.40,000/was provided to them from the management side.
January - March 2013
ADHAR NEWS – BADLAPUR
1st January '2013: Mentally Challenged inmates
love music. The year began with the musical event.
Badlapur Sangeet Premi Friends Club visited and
performed a memorable programe for the inmates of
Adhar. Inmates as well as the staff will remember
this evening for years to come. We thank the team for
the same.
4th January '2013: Adhar is now been
recognized as a model institute in the field of taking
rehabilitation of the mentally challenged adult. Many
Organisations visit for project work. 40 psychology
students from Modern College, Vashi along with
faculty members paid a visit to have first hand
information about the functioning of Adhar. They then
took active part in the cultural programe presented
by inmates.
7th to 14th January '2013: ‘All work and no play
makes a man dull’. Keeping this in mind Annual
sports are being organized every year. This year they
were held for one week from 7th Jan till 14th Jan.
This is the time for fun and frolic. Inmates as well as
the staff forget their ages and enjoy this period and
wait eagerly for the next year to come.
15th January '2013: Concern India Foundation
has been partly sponsoring the Vocational Training
Center for the past 2 yrs. As a routine inspection, they
visited Adhar and were satisfied by the progress made.
18 th January '2013: ‘Til Gud ghya ani god god
bola’. Makar Sankrat amongst the staff was
celebrated. Staff enjoyed the function.
22nd January '2013: ‘Jaanta Raja’ an epic on the
life sketch of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was shown
to inmates of Adhar at Adarsh Vidyalaya Ground,
Badlapur. Inmates thoroughly enjoyed it and were
discussing about the same for weeks to come.
26th January '2013: Mrs. Shubha Chitnis a writer,
who has written many books on different issues is
now writing a book titled “Adhar Maya”on ADHAR.
She was the chief guest for the Republic day
celebration. She along with Mr Chitnis hoisted the
flag as well as released the newsletter. She was very
Adhar News
much impressed by the cultural programe presented
by the inmates of Adhar.
2nd February '2013: An exhibition cum sale of
the vocational training centre was arranged at Rajhans
School, Andheri on the fete day. We thank Mr Arun
Wadhwa, Trustee, and Dhiti Wadhwa, his daughter
for arranging the same
9th February '2013: There are few inmates who
neither go home nor go out on medical grounds, these
inmates also enjoy the outings for them along with
other inmates a small picnic is being organized every
weekend. This time the picnic was arranged at Barvi
Dam, Badlapur.
12th February '2013: 100 students from Badlapur
High School paid a visit and had full day interaction
session with the inmates. They actively took part in
all the activities. They now will become Ambassador
of Adhar and try to remove the misconception of
mental retardation in the society
16th February '2013: There are few inmates who
neither go home nor go out on medical grounds, these
inmates also enjoy the outings for them along with
other inmates a small picnic is being organized every
weekend. This time the picnic was arranged at
Gajanan Maharaj Temple, Kanhor, Badlapur.
23rd February '2013: Vishwakarma Sutar Samaj
gave the platform to exhibit the talents in mentally
challenged at Badlapur. They were asked to perform
only cultural programes (group as well as solo dance).
They were wonder-struck to see the programme. One
11
of the members of the group started thinking why they
are labeled as ‘mentally challenged’.
ADHAR NEWS – NASHIK
26th February '2013: Every year a fair is arranged
at Mulgaon temple known as Khandoba chi jatra.
People from nearby villages gather and have fun. Our
inmates are attending this fair since 13yrs. They climb
the small mountain to get the blessing of the village
deity. This year the inmates were taken into 2 batches.
They enjoyed the climb.
26th January '2013: Republic day was
celebrated. Inmates Deepesh and Saurabh did the flag
hoisting. Thereafter inmates entertained themselves.
5th March '2013: ‘Prevention is better than cure’.
Like every year a medical camp for the residents was
organized to detect any abnormalities well in advance.
Screened out inmates are referred to specialized
doctors.
9th March '2013: Antarang- Jeshta Nagrik
Samajik Sanstha had organized International
Women’s day in Thane. On this occasion they had
allotted a stall to Adhar, where the product made by
the Mentally Challenged could be exhibited and sold.
We thank Ashatai Gore for arranging the same.
8th March '2013: Mrs Lata Palekar, well wisher
of ADHAR along with Mr. Palekar visited. She has
been supporting Adhar since its inception. She was
totally satisfied with the progress of Adhar and
donated substantial amount to Adhar.
10th March '2013: On Mahashivratra day inmates
were taken to Shiva temple at Rahatoli. They were
blessed by the head priest and enjoyed the hospitality
of the temple.
30th March '2013: Mr. Sunil Khandkar, Trustee
had organized a free stall at his office BPL, Chembur.
Adhar had put up a stall as an orientation activity. It
was a nice learning experience for the staff of the
company as well as those who attended it.
5th Feburary '2013 : Mr. Milind Dnyate, Statutory
Auditor, along with his family members visited us.
He applauded the progress made by Adhar since 1st
June 2012.
12th Feburary '2013 : Met Mr. Anil Khadse,
Senior Civil Judge and Secretary District legal
Services Authority and intrduced Adhar to him.
During the discussions, he informed me that he will
be coming soon to visit Adhar.
24th Feburary '2013 : Mr. Deshmukh came for
water survey. He suggested 3 points within the campus
where the borewell can be drilled to get water.
8th March '2013 : To solve the water crises at
Adhar a borewell was drilled till the depth of 456
feet.
12th March '2013 : Slab was casted on the LIC
sponsored dormitory.
THIS ISSUE IS SPONSORED BY
Mrs. SUSHAMA & Mr. VINAY PURI
12
January - March 2013
14th to 16th March '2013: Meena Shinde, Sr.
Accontant and Shanti Atisham, Matron visited to
review the work at Adhar and suggested few things.
15th March '2013: Ms. Nandini Goswami,
General Manager, Corporate Communication, Glaxo
along with Smruti Chaturvedi, Mr. Ashok Deshpande,
Manager, Nashik Division Glaxo Unit, Mr. G. C.
Gore, Member, Core Committee, Nashik visited to
see the project in general and the medical unit in
particular. Mr. Vishwas Gore, Chairman oriented
them and stressed the need of a full fledged Medical
Unit at Nashik Adhar. Ms Goswami highly
appreciated the project.
them. The purpose of the visit was to know the
procedure to open a residential unit for mentally
challenged adults. Mr. Gore assured all the help to
them and encouraged to go ahead as it is the need
of the hour.
EXHIBITIONS HELD
Sr. No.
Period
1
26-01-2013
Adhar,Badlapur
7395/-
2
02-02-2013
Rajhans Vidyalaya,
Andheri
2600/-
3
09-03-2012
Antarang,Thane
1950/-
4
30-03-2013
Bharat Petroleum,
Chembur
2279/-
16th March '2013: 7 members of Vishwas
Palak Parivar visited to study in depth functioning
of Adhar. Mr. Vishwas Gore, Chairman oriented
5
Place
Jan-Mar.- 2013 Adhar, Nashik
Amount
3135/-
Admissions Open
For Male at Adhar II [Nashik]
We have great pleasure to inform you that Dormitory No. 2 at Adhar Nashik
will become operative in the month of May 2013.
We have open the admissions for the same.
Parents are requested to inform their known parents who are finding it difficult
to take care of their ward at home and are looking out for such facility.
To avoid disappointment we request the needy parents to enroll themselves
for admission of male mentally retarded adults at Nashik.
Available seats will be Maximum 25.
PLEASE CONTACT
Adhar News
Mr. Parag Fadnis
8605014540
Ms. Sharayu Samarth
8605014532
13
‘AaQaar fasT’
vak-Saa^p Aaho ‘AaQaar’cao [email protected]¸
toqao haotat Anaok [email protected]
TolaIfaonakvhr ivaNatat laaokrIcao¸
haoto ka}iTMga, p^ikMga Agarba%tIcao.
laaokrIcyaa baahUlyaa Aahot gaaoáyaa pana¸
iplaaokvhrcaI emba`ayaDrI pha iktI Cana.
Klaba%%yaatlaa masaalaa ,Aaho far caivaYT¸
AavaDInao Ka}na pahUNao haotIla QaYTpuYT.
spa^njaI, spa^njaI [Dlyaa caTkdar¸
Taka} pasaUna iTka}Mcaa maaoza drbaar.
$maalaacyaa p^koTsanaa, maagaNaI BarpUr¸
ksaaoTIlaa ]trtat, maulao puropur.
kagadacyaa ipSavyaa krtanaa pDtao ipT\Tyaa¸
manaaorMjanaacaa kaya-k`ma pahUna maulao vaajavatat iSaT\Tyaa.
vak-Saa^pmaiQala maulao krtat klaakusar¸
Flaa^varpa^T krtanaa, pDtao baajaUcaa ivasar.
isk`nacyaa Saa[-nao Kraba haotat to hat¸
kama pahUna ivhijaTsa- mhNatat¸ ‘‘Aro vaa... @yaa hO baat.’’
Saa^ipMgaba^gavar sauMdr iDJaa[na iTklyaaMcao¸
p`oJaoMTp^koT kolyaavar hasya ]maTo samaaQaanacao.
idvaaLIt savaa-Mnaa hvyaaSyaa vaaTtat pNa%yaa¸ maoNaba%%yaa¸
AaMQaaratlaa purosaa ]jaoD jarI Asao imaNaimaNata.
KDU, fa[lsa, [email protected]¸ ifnaola pahUna laaok
qabaktat [email protected]¸
DaoArma^T¸ iga`iTMgakaD-sa¸ DsTsa- krtanaa
sagaLyaaMnaa [email protected]
ponasT^nD¸ TI-kaosTr¸ vaatI pahUNao AavaDInao naotI
snaohacyaa Qaagyaanao ivaNata yaotat naatIgaaotI.
kQaI D/a[vhr tr kQaI gaaD-¸ vhavao laagato iTcasa-naa baosT
ASaI Qaavato saUprfasT vak-Saa^pcaI ‘AaQaar’ T/ona.
– sauica~a Gaarpuro
vak-Saa^p [Mcaaja‘AaQaar badlaapUr’
14
spoSala koAr yauinaTcaI TIma
...
TIma.
‘AaQaar’ maQaUna malaa ha}sa maasTrcaa faona Aalaa
kI vaOBavacaI tbyaot barI naahI. %yaalaa Da^ vyavaharok
M Do
daKvauna AaNalao kaLjaI k$ naka. Aata %yaalaa
spoSala koAr yauinaTmaQyao zovalao Aaho. maga jaast
caaOkSaI kolyaavar kLlao kI tbyaot jaastca Kraba
JaalaI Aaho ho eokUna maaJao mana qaa-yaavarca navhto
kQaI ekda %yaalaa DaoLyaanao baGato ! pNa tI
saMQyaakaLcaI vaoL AsalyaamauLo ‘‘AaQaar’’maQyao paohaocaNao
pNa [email protected] navhto. dusayaa idvaSaI sakaLIca
‘AaQaar’maQyao paohaocalao tr eka maulaanao saaMigatlao kI
vaOBava spoSala koAr yauinaT maQyao Aaho, tao malaa itqao
Gao}na gaolaa itqao paihlao tr vaOBavacaI kMiDSana KUpca
Kraba haotI saMpUNa- AMga lauLo Jaalao haoto. DaoLo pNa
]GaDt navhta¸ AMgaat Aijabaat takd navhtI.
malaa %yaacaI KUp kaLjaI vaaTt haotI caar tasa
%yaacyaakDo baGatca basauna raihlao¸ tIna vaajata ‘‘AaQaar’’
caI maoiDkla iTma hjar JaalaI %yaaMnaI vaOBavalaa tpasauna
baiGatlao. Da^ vyavaharo yaaMnaI sTaflaa kahI saUcanaa
idlyaa Ajao-MT blaD TosT krayalaa saaMigatlyaa. malaa
iQar idlaa. kaih kaLjaI k$ naka sagaLo kaih
zIk hao[-la. pNa malaa ivaSvaasa vaaTt navhta kI
evaZI tbyaot ibaGaDlaolaI kSaI kaya sauQaarNaarÆ
Aja-MT blaD TosTcaa irpaoT- imaLalaa¸ salaa[-na
laavalao gaolao¸ ]pcaar sau$ Jaalao¸ [email protected] vyavaharoMnaI
jaast TosT na krta AcaUk inadana kolao va maoiDkla
sTafnaIca naarL paNaI f`UTsa va AaOYaQaacaI vyavasqaa
Aa^ifsa kDUna k$na GaotlaI.
spoSala koAr yauinaTcyaa sTafnaI vaOBavacaI KUp
Cana kaLjaI GaotlaI Kasa k$na svacCtocaI.maI
Garcyaa ADcaNaIMmauLo jaast vaoL vaOBavalaa do} Sakt
navhto ‘‘AaQaar’’cyaa sTafvar vaOBavalaa saaopivalao va
GarI gaolao. manaat QaakQauk haotIca AaQaarcaa sTaf
javaL Aata maaobaa[-la AsalyaamaULo faonavar caaOkSaI
krt Asao. naMtr Aaz idvasaaMnaI vaOBavalaa BaoTayalaa
Aalao tr vaOBavalaa Da^rmaoiT/t ifrtanaa baiGatlao maaJyaa
DaoLyaat AanaMdaEau jamaa Jaalao [email protected] va sava- maoiDkla
TImacao AaBaar maanalao. hyaa savaa-MnaI vaOBavalaa [tko
Cana saMBaaLlao kI to malaa pNa jamalao nasato Krca
Qanyavaad spoSala koAr yauinaT....
– saaO.ivainata vasaMt gauja-r
palak
January - March 2013
Appeal
Contribution towards
“Corpus - lifetime Food Provision”
For inmates of Adhar Badlapur
•
Innovative way to celebrate birthday, anniversary or remembering beloved and making your
special day really special…..
•
The scheme is one time donation of Rs. 100000/- (Rs. one lac only) to the corpus.
•
Book any specific day in a calendar year.
•
In return “Lunch with Sweet” will be served to 201 mentally challenged adults on a selected
day at Adhar Badlapur every year forever.
•
For Adhar it’s a valuable contribution as this will help us to create a fund for food requirements
of our children forever.
•
The following days are already registered:1. 31st January
2. 26th February
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Birthday of “Late shri Pradip S. Kulkarni”
Marriage Anniversary of “Late Shri Shripad Gangadhar Gore
& Late Sau Kamal Shripad Gore”
30th June
Birthday of Mr. Colin Williams
15th August
in memory of “ Late Sau.Padmavati V. Deshmukh”
4th October
Death Anniversary of “Late Shri. Madhav Gangadhar Gore”
14th October
In memory of “Late Sau. Parvatibai S. Kulkarni”
2nd November
In memory of all Departed Souls
19th November
Birthday of Mr. Tarun Agarwal
23rd November
Birthday of “Late Shri. Madhav Gangadhar Gore”
25th December
Birthday of Chetan Shah
Pitrupaksha (Dashami) In memory of “Late Shri Manohar R. Wadhwa &
Smt. Neeta Manohar Wadhwa”.
18th April
Birth Date of “Late Smt. Shobhana Ramakant Gore”
The scheme was announced on 15th Aug. 2012. If initially 100 days are booked we will create
corpus of Rs. 1 crore which will be great relief to Adhar in long run.
We appeal parents, donors, well wishers to come forward and support us in taking lifelong care of
mentally challenged adults at Adhar, Badlapur.
- Vishwas Gore, Chairman
Adhar News
15
HOW YOU CAN HELP ADHAR ?
•
Sponsor food expenses of one resident for one month
Rs.
2,000.00
•
Sponsor the cost of one resident for one month
Rs.
8,000.00
•
Sponsor one Special Meal for all residents
Rs.
6,000.00
•
Become a Lifeline Donor & Well-wisher of Adhar
Rs.
5,000.00
•
Sponsor the Annual outing for One day
Rs. 25,000.00
•
Sponsor the Bed sheets, Mattresses, Towels for one year
Rs.
1.00 Lac
•
Sponsor one poor resident’s maintenance for one year
Rs.
1.00 Lac
•
Supply dry food provisions requirement for one month
Rs.
1.50 Lac
•
Memorial Marble Slab at a prominent location
Rs.
1.00 Lac
•
Sponsorship of Material Cost of Vocational Training Activity for one year
Rs.
3.00 Lacs
•
Sponsorship of a Dairy Farm expenses for one year
Rs.
2.00 Lacs
•
Sponsorship of Special Care Unit expenses for one year
Rs. 12.50 Lacs
•
By placing orders for our products like Candles, Agarbatties,
Dusters, Phenyl, Liquid Soap, Chalks, Office Files, etc.
•
By contributing in our Fund-raising Projects like Greeting Cards,
Advertisement in Souvenir etc.
Donations to Adhar are exempted under 80 (G) of the Income Tax.
Adhar can accept Foreign Currency Contribution as per the Registration granted by Government of
India vide Reg. No.: 083990108
Cheques / DD to be drawn in favour of "The Association of Parents of Mentally Retarded
Children."
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
1.
Mr. Vishwas Gore
Chairman
6.
Mr. K. S. Daryani
Trustee
2.
Mr. N. P. Desai
Secretary
7.
Smt. C. R. Saraswathy
Trustee
3.
Mr. Sunil J. Khandkar
Treasurer
8.
Mr. Arun Wadhwa
Trustee
4.
Mr. S. M. Chandawarkar
Trustee
9.
Mr. Ashwin Mehta
5.
Mr. M. L. Talwar
Trustee
Representative
Trustee
Edited, Published & Printed by : Parag Fadnis, on behalf of The Association of Parents of Mentally Retarded
Children, Mumbai.102, Om Shraddha Saburi, Vishnu Nagar, Opp. Bhagwati School, Thane (W) - 400 602.
• Tel.: 2542 6753 / 2534 1708.
16
January - March 2013
IMPORTANT EVENTS, NASHIK
Mr. Milind Dnyate, Statutory Auditor along with family members
enjoying their time at the Vocational Training Centre, Nashik
Work in Progress on the LIC Dormitory
Mr. Vishwas Gore, Chairman explaining the project “Adhar ”
to Ms. Nandini Goswami, General Manager, Corporate
Communication, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
along with Smruti Chaturvedi, Mr. Ashok Deshpande,
Mr. G. C. Gore, Core Committee Members, Nashik
Mr. Vishwas Gore, Chairman explaining the concept and
philosophy of “ Adhar” to members of Vishwas Palak Parivar,
Thane. They are intending to start a residential unit at Panseth
Construction of Vocational Training Centre almost completed
and is expected to start from 1st June 2013
LIC Dormitory construction completed
and is expected to start from 1st June 2013
GRATITUDE
There is no happiness like knowing that you have
made a difference in someone else’s LIFE.
This happiness we attribute to the all donors,
well wishers and friends who have supported
us directly or indirectly all these years.
We express our Gratitude for their gesture
and wish that our association continues
for the times to come.
THANK YOU
-Board of Trustees
Head Office Address: (APMRC)
102, Om Shraddha Saburi Apartment,
Opp. Bhagvati School, Vishnunagar,
Naupada, Thane (W) - 400 602.
Tel. No. (022) 2542 6753 / 25341708
Email: [email protected]
Badlapur Project : (Adhar)
Nashik Project : (Adhar II)
Thakurwadi, Village Mulgaon,
Gat No. 286, Pimpalgaon (Dukra),
Asnoli Phata, Off. Barvi Dam Road,
B/H Indian Oil Petrol Pump.,
Badlapur (W.), Thane - 421 503
Ghoti – Sinner Road, Tal. Igatpuri, Dist. Nashik
Tel. No. (0251) 2910303 /106/1083
Tel. No. (02553) 204002